His debut solo album, Faith, has sold around 25m to date and was named Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards in 1989.

As news of Michael's death broke late on Christmas Day, his former Wham bandmate tweeted: "Heartbroken at the loss of my beloved friend Yog. Me, his loved ones, his friends, the world of music, the world at large. 4ever loved. A xx"

George Michael passed away peacefully on Christmas Day at his home in OxfordshireREUTERS/Heinz-Peter Bader

Meanwhile, Michael's former partner Kenny Goss, who he dated between 1996 and 2009, described him as an "extremely kind and generous man".

In a statement, he said: "I'm heartbroken with the news that my dear friend and long-time love George Michael has passed.

"He was a major part of my life and I loved him very, very much. He was an extremely kind and generous man.

"The beautiful memories and music he brought to the world will always be an important part of my life and those who also loved and admired him."